Why Every Tenant Should Know the Tenancy Law in Their State

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Most tenants sign rental agreements without ever reading or knowing their state’s tenancy law. Unfortunately, this lack of awareness often leads to exploitation, unfair eviction, or payment disputes . In states like Lagos, Abuja, and Rivers, tenancy laws are in place to protect both tenants and landlords. 1. What Are Tenancy Laws? Tenancy laws are state-specific regulations that outline: Rights and obligations of tenants and landlords Processes for rent review and eviction Guidelines for property maintenance and dispute resolution Example: The Lagos Tenancy Law 2011 forbids landlords from demanding more than one year’s rent in advance from new tenants in certain property categories. 2. Why It Matters for Tenants Protection Against Exploitation: Helps you know if charges or requests from a landlord are legal. Eviction Protection: Understand legal eviction processes, so you are not illegally locked out. Fair Rent Reviews: Know your rights when landlords attem...
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How One Renter Lost Money to a Fake House Agent in Lekki — And What Every Nigerian Should Learn

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When a Dream Apartment Turns Into a Nightmare

He was searching for a modest, well-lit two-bedroom in Lekki, tiled floors, reliable electricity, and within his budget. A crisp Instagram listing offered exactly that, and at a surprisingly low price.

The agent seemed professional on the call, fast response, friendly, convincing. But then came the request: a ₦5,000 inspection fee paid upfront, even before he could step foot in the property.

It sounded odd, but he went ahead and sent the money.


The Scam Unfolds

They scheduled the viewing for the next morning. But days passed with the agent making excuses, traffic, phone issues, until eventually his number was unreachable, WhatsApp status vanished, and messages stopped.

In the end, the apartment never existed, and neither did the agent.


How Widespread Are Rental Scams in Nigeria?

The story isn’t isolated.

  • In 2023, the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) recorded 95,620 fraud incidents, with total losses of ₦17.67 billion.
  • Over five years (2019–2023), cumulative fraud losses increased by 497% (Daily Post).
  • In 2024, financial fraud losses jumped to ₦52.26 billion, up 196% year-on-year (Nairametrics).
  • Lagos alone accounted for 48–49% of all fraud-related financial losses, much of it driven by online transactions, including real estate (BusinessDay).
  • A NOIPolls survey found that 4 in 10 Nigerians looking for houses online have been defrauded or know someone who was (NOIPolls).


Why This Story Matters

He didn’t just lose ₦5,000; he lost time, trust, and peace of mind. For thousands of renters across Nigeria, especially in Lagos, this story is far too familiar.


Top Rules for Renters in Nigeria

  1. Never pay inspection or agency fees before seeing the property.
  2. Verify agents using directories (e.g., NIESV or Estate Surveyors & Valuers).
  3. Check ownership through official land registries or property portals.
  4. Avoid pressure deals like “pay now, move in today.”
  5. Use verified listing platforms with secure payment options.

How to Protect Yourself

Conclusion

This Lekki case highlights how scammers prey on urgent renters. Share this post with anyone currently house hunting, you might save them stress, money, and heartbreak.



Nigerian rental scams, fake house agents Lagos, avoid property scams, house rental fraud Nigeria

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